Jisaku

Restaurant Details

In the cold envelope of Nozawa Onsen, the warm glow of lanterns outside Jisaku beckons like a comforting embrace.

This petite izakaya, nestled on a corner near a craft shop and the village’s hot spring facility, is what one would imagine when one thinks of a neighborhood locale. Its simplicity is its strength — no flashy decor or reminders of its growing reputation, just an inviting mix of Western-style and traditional tatami seating. As you duck under the noren curtain and step inside, the warm voices of the owners and staff greet every guest with a cheerful “irasshaimase”— welcome.

The bar offers a selection of straightforward yet deeply comforting snacks and light meals. But if you ask the locals at a nearby table for a recommendation, you’re bound to hear the same answer: get the Nagaimo steak. This hearty, Japanese-style hashbrown, crafted from sticky Nagaimo potato, is a signature dish that perfectly captures the izakaya’s rustic charm. Adventurous diners can also savor horse meat sashimi or pair snacks with a cold beer or warm sake.

Despite its modest size and concise offerings, every dish at Jisaku is crafted with care, delivering comforting flavors that linger long after your visit.